Pink Corydoras (Axelrod's Cory)

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Meta River basin in Colombia. Prefers small lowland tributaries and slow-flowing streams, soft sandy bottoms and riparian vegetation.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Pink Corydoras (Corydoras axelrodi). One of the most minute species, characterized by a rather stocky snout profile. The species is named after Herbert R. Axelrod.

Social Behavior: Gregarious and very sociable fish. Tends to stay compact in the group during movements on the bottom. Single keeping is absolutely forbidden, requires schools of at least 6 specimens.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Light livery (pinkish or light beige) with a conspicuous black lateral stripe that widens towards the operculum, and a black spot on the dorsal fin. Females are significantly rounder and more massive in the abdominal area.

Aquarium Setup: 60 cm (24 inches) tank. Substrate of fine sand only. Create shaded areas with roots or meanders of rounded stones, to allow the school to rest away from intense light.

Diet and Feeding: Micro-predator. Readily accepts sinking pellets for bottom fish and highly appreciates tubifex, bloodworms and brine shrimp, both frozen and live, while rummaging through debris.

Water Quality: Does not have extreme requirements for pH, tolerating neutral water well, but suffers greatly from nitrogenous compounds (ammonia, nitrites, high nitrates).

Compatibility and Tankmates: Excellent for peaceful community tanks. Cohabits peacefully with small Characins (Neons, Cardinals), rasboras and other calm catfish.

Aquarium Reproduction: The female glues eggs that are very large in relation to her size on glass or vegetation (up to 60 eggs). The temperature drop induced by water changes is the reproductive trigger.

Risks and Diseases: Susceptible to barbel wear caused by unsuitable bottoms, and systemic bacterial infections if nitrates exceed 30 ppm.